Baltimore Violence Free Zone

VFZ Baltimore

New Vision Youth Services’ mission is to change the cultural environment of at-risk youth in an effort to eliminate violent and destructive behavior in Baltimore City. New Vision was founded by Minister Billy H. Stanfield with a vision to reach the community positively by addressing all the issues that hinder the spiritual, social, physical, economic and cultural growth of Baltimore City youth.

The New Vision program targets high-risk children and youth, particularly those who are struggling with behavior and academic issues. Character development activities integrated into the model help identified middle and senior high school students establish appropriate values, beliefs and character.

In February, 2005, New Vision Youth Services (NVYS) partnered with the Center for Neighborhood Enterprise (now Woodson Center) to bring the Violence Free Zone program of in-and-out-of school-time support to youth enrolled in Southwestern High School. The school was identified as experiencing high rates of violent and disruptive activity among students. New Vision’s implemented character development, recreational and sports activities and the school almost immediately reported reductions in violence and behavior problems, which the principal and other staff credited to the VFZ program.

NVYS is currently implementing the Violence-Free Zone program in several areas in and around Baltimore. More information about New Vision Youth Services can be found at the organization’s website, www.nyvs.org.